Principles for Relationships from God's Word by Claudio Consuegra

Relationship capital – 1

Now when David came to Ziklag, he sent some of the spoil to the elders of Judah, to his friends, saying, “Here is a present for you from the spoil of the enemies of the LORD”– 1 Samuel 30:26 (NKJV)

For many, time is the most valuable asset. They say things like, “time is money.” But we only so much time in our day or in our lifetime. It cannot be multiplied, it cannot be rebuilt.

For others, the most valuable asset is money. They might say things like, “money makes the world go around.” Money can grown and may even be replenished if lost.

One thing that we can invest in and grow and get dividends for a lifetime and beyond – invest in relationships. Relationships shape us as human beings in ways that neither time, nor money, nor things can. Relational value outweighs other values because relationships can simultaneously be the investment and the investor.

Stephen Covey, author of the best-seller book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, uses the term Emotional Bank Account as he describes “the amount of trust that’s been built in a relationship.” We build a healthy “reserve” as we interact with others and exercise love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control.

So how can we build and maintain relational capital? Jennifer Mcafee[i] suggests four simple steps to enrich this lasting asset? How can we intentionally build an Emotional Bank Account?

Focus your attention. When you are with other people, silent your smart phone, don’t just put it on vibrate. Better yet, Place it out of sight and out of mind, and instead make eye contact with them and mentally engage what they are saying. Your undivided attention will let the person know they are the most important thing to you in that moment.

Send handwritten thank-you notes. Expressions of appreciation are wonderful ways to pay it forward. Everyone appreciates appreciation. Develop the habit of saying thank you for people’s time, teamwork, and investment by sending them a handwritten note.

Father God, you have blessed me with so many people who have enriched my life. Help me to invest in the lives of others, too.